Duolingo CEO Explains Why They Won't Show More Ads

Duolingo's Strategic Decision: Prioritizing User Experience Over Short-Term Revenue Gains Duolingo, the popular language-learning app, recently faced a decision that highlights the tension between short-term profits and long-term user satisfaction. In an interview with Bloomberg Business, CEO Luis von Ahn revealed that despite the potential for significantly increased revenue, Duolingo has chosen to resist the temptation to show more ads to its free users. "There has been one instance where I did something that was just for short-term stock, and I felt so bad about it that I don't think I'll do it again," von Ahn stated, referring to a previous attempt to increase ad revenue. This decision, he explained, negatively impacted the user experience, a key factor in Duolingo's success. CFO Matt Skaruppa echoed von Ahn's sentiment, emphasizing the company's commitment to a long-term strategy. He noted that while increasing ads could dramatically boost revenue in the short term, it could ultimately harm the app's user base and long-term growth. This decision underscores Duolingo's commitment to user experience and sustainable growth, demonstrating a business model that prioritizes the long-term health of the app over immediate financial gains. It's a strategic choice that may set an example for other companies facing similar dilemmas.